NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Exam Preview Answers
1. When reviewing the demographics of ethnic groups in the United States, which group does the nurse recall as the largest and fastest-growing population?
- A. Asian
- B. Hispanic
- C. American Indian
- D. African American/Black
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hispanic.' Hispanics are the largest and fastest-growing population in the United States. While African Americans/Blacks, Asians, American Indians, and other groups are significant, Hispanics currently represent the largest demographic group. African American/Black, Asian, and American Indian populations are substantial but not as large or fast-growing as the Hispanic population. Therefore, Hispanic is the most appropriate choice in this scenario.
2. You have been assigned to take an apical pulse for one of the patients on the nursing unit. How will you do this?
- A. You will place the stethoscope over the heart and listen for any irregular beats.
- B. You will place the stethoscope over the heart and count the beats per minute.
- C. You will place your fingertip over the patient's wrist and feel for any irregular beats.
- D. You will place your fingertip over the patient's wrist and count the beats per minute.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: To take an apical pulse accurately, you should place the stethoscope over the heart and count the number of beats per minute. This method provides a precise assessment of the heart rate. While listening for irregular beats is essential for assessing the heart's rhythm, the primary objective of taking an apical pulse is to determine the heart rate. Choices C and D are incorrect because the apical pulse is not taken at the wrist; instead, it is obtained by auscultating at the apex of the heart, usually at the point where the fifth intercostal space meets the midclavicular line.
3. A nurse is completing an incident report about a medication error that she made when she accidentally administered too much insulin to a diabetic client. All of the following are components of this documentation EXCEPT:
- A. The reason for administering the wrong dose
- B. The type of drug involved
- C. The amount of insulin that was given
- D. Any adverse effects on the client
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When completing an incident report for a medication error, it is essential to include factual information such as the type of drug involved, the amount administered, and any adverse effects on the client. However, stating the reason for administering the wrong dose should be avoided in documentation. The focus should be on reporting what happened rather than assigning blame or admitting fault. This approach helps in ensuring a thorough and accurate account of the medication error without introducing subjective elements that could complicate the investigation or resolution process. Therefore, the correct answer is 'The reason for administering the wrong dose.' Choices A, B, and D are vital components of incident report documentation, providing crucial details that help in understanding the error and its impact on the client.
4. A patient's urine specimen tested positive for bilirubin. Which of the following is most true?
- A. The patient should be evaluated for kidney disease
- B. The specimen was probably left at room temperature for more than two hours
- C. The specimen is positive for bacteria
- D. The specimen should be stored in an area protected from light
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Bilirubin is easily broken down by light, so all samples testing positive for bilirubin should be protected from light exposure. Storing the specimen in an area protected from light helps maintain the integrity of the bilirubin levels for accurate testing. Choice A is incorrect because the presence of bilirubin in urine does not necessarily indicate kidney disease. Choice B is incorrect as the exposure to light, not room temperature, affects bilirubin levels. Choice C is incorrect as the presence of bilirubin does not indicate the presence of bacteria in the specimen.
5. During the general survey, what action is a component of the assessment?
- A. Observing the patient's body stature and nutritional status
- B. Interpreting the subjective information reported by the patient
- C. Measuring the patient's temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure
- D. Observing specific body systems during the physical assessment
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During the general survey, the nurse assesses the patient's overall appearance, body structure, mobility, and behavior, which includes observing body stature and nutritional status. Interpreting subjective information reported by the patient is part of the subjective data collection process and not the general survey. Measuring vital signs like temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure is part of a focused physical examination, not the general survey. Additionally, observing specific body systems while performing a physical assessment is more specific and focused than the general survey.
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